Buying a vehicle can be a difficult and expensive process. When you’re making such a significant investment, you want to make sure that your vehicle is safe and reliable. Thankfully, Nevada’s lemon laws make it easier to find a car that you can trust.
The term “lemon” refers to a car that is often breaking down or has constant problems. Nevada has strong consumer protection laws in place that are designed to prevent a damaged, potentially dangerous car from being sold to an unsuspecting driver. However, if you’ve purchased a “lemon”, consult with a Vegas injury lawyer for help navigating the legal process.
What Counts as a Lemon Under Nevada Law?
According to Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 597.600-597.688, car manufacturers are responsible if they sell a defective vehicle to a customer that requires constant repairs. If a customer tries to repair the vehicle a certain number of times, the customer has the right to request a refund or a replacement car.
For a vehicle to count as a lemon under this law, it must meet the following requirements:
- The defect significantly affects the car’s market value.
- The vehicle does not comply with the express warranty.
- The consumer first reports the defect within one year of the original delivery date to the first buyer or before the express warranty expires.
- The manufacturer cannot repair the defect within four attempts or 30 days from the date that the vehicle is out of service for repairs.
What Should You Do If Your Vehicle Is a Lemon?
If your vehicle turns out to be a lemon, you have the right to request a replacement from the manufacturer. You have the right to receive a vehicle that is comparable to the one you purchased. The car must be the same model with the same features. If the manufacturer cannot replace the vehicle, you are entitled to a full refund—including any taxes and fees.
To initiate your case, you will need to notify either the dealership where you purchased the vehicle or the vehicle’s manufacturer. You must submit a written report that describes the vehicle defects.
Some manufacturers have set up systems that handle lemon law complaints. If your manufacturer offers this program, you will need to pursue a claim with the company first before filing your case in court. If the manufacturer refuses your claim, you could file a lawsuit against the company.
Filing a Legal Claim Under Nevada’s Lemon Laws
Under NRS 597.688, you can file a civil lawsuit against the vehicle’s manufacturer if your car is a lemon. As long as you have suffered injuries or financial damages as a result of the vehicle’s defect, you could initiate legal action.
Through your claim, you can recover any of the following damages:
- Medical bills if you were injured in an accident
- Compensation for the value of the vehicle
- Lost wages and future earnings while recovering from the accident
- Punitive damages, in cases involving extremely negligent actions
Contact a Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer
If you were involved in an accident and believe a vehicle defect was at fault, you are entitled to compensation. If your car was a lemon, you deserve a full refund or comparable replacement. A Las Vegas car accident lawyer can help you seek justice and recover the compensation that you deserve.
As soon as possible after your accident, contact an attorney to discuss your case. Your lawyer will conduct a full investigation into your collision and help determine your next steps.